ADHD Treatments For Adults

Many of the same treatments that work for children with ADHD can also be used to treat adults. These treatments include counseling, medication (psychotherapy) and life skills training. These treatments may comprise a mix of.

Stimulant Medicines

These medications work by increasing the amount of certain brain chemicals that help control attention and self-regulation. These include methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants from the amphetamine group, such as the amphetamine lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).

Stimulant Medicines


Stimulants are substances that boost the body's system and may result in greater mental alertness and more physical activity. adhd treatments adults include legal substances such as caffeine (added in tea and coffee), nicotine, and prescription drugs used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy, and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants can cause over-stimulation and lead to anxiety and heart palpitations, as well as hypertension, paranoia and aggression. In some people long-term, use of stimulants can damage the the brain's dopamine system and reduce pleasure feelings. The stimulants are available in pills, liquids or patches. Cocaine, methamphetamines and amphetamines are stimulants that can be obtained from a criminal and then used.

These drugs are also known as central nervous system stimulants. They work by increasing certain chemicals in the brain that improve concentration, decrease tiredness and increase alertness. Adults suffering from ADD and ADHD are treated first with these medications. The medications are available in an all-day formula or longer-acting formulations that are active throughout the day, like lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate.

The health care team may also recommend psychosocial interventions such as education, psychotherapy or coaching. It is important to monitor the effectiveness of medications over time. This is a difficult task.

Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants

About 15% to 30 percent of children do not respond to stimulant drugs This is also applicable to adults as well. Non-stimulant medications take longer to take effect and it could take as long as several weeks before you notice any effects. However, they don't have the same danger of having side effects as stimulants, and could be a better option if you can't tolerate them or are worried about addiction.